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US ‘disappointed’ in Mexico’s new GMO corn decree

Corn sits on a drying rack at the home of Norma and Eugene “Hutch” Naranjo in Ohkay Owingeh, formerly known as San Juan Pueblo, in northern New Mexico on Aug 21, 2022. (PHOTO / AP)

WASHINGTON – The United States said on Tuesday it was "disappointed" in the Mexican government's announcement the previous day which walked back a deadline to ban genetically modified (GM) corn for animal feed and industrial use in the country, but retained its plans to ban the corn for human consumption.

"The US believes in and adheres to a science-based, rules-based trading system and remains committed to preventing disruptions to bilateral agricultural trade and economic harm to US and Mexican producers," Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a statement.

The Mexican Economy Ministry said on Monday that it was eliminating its January 2024 deadline for ending its imports of GM corn used to feed animals. The country buys about 17 million tonnes of mostly GM yellow corn from the United States each year, mostly for animal feed.

The US believes in and adheres to a science-based, rules-based trading system and remains committed to preventing disruptions to bilateral agricultural trade and economic harm to US and Mexican producers.

Tom Vilsack, US Agriculture Secretary

Mexico will still prohibit use of GM corn for human consumption, such as flour, dough, or tortilla made from the grain. About 20 percent of Mexican corn imports from the United States is white corn for food products.

ALSO READ: US demands Mexico explain science behind GMO corn ban

It will still move forward with its plan to ban imports of the herbicide glyphosate, with a transition period in effect until March 31, 2024.

In a January meeting with Mexican officials, the US Trade Representative's (USTR) office said it was considering taking action under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) over the dispute, which threatens billions of dollars in corn trade.

"We are carefully reviewing the details of the new decree and intend to work with USTR to ensure our science-based, rules-based commitment remains firm," Vilsack said on Tuesday.

Mexico will still prohibit use of GM corn for human consumption, such as flour, dough, or tortilla made from the grain. About 20 percent of Mexican corn imports from the United States is white corn for food products

USTR did not respond to a request for comment.

The United States had given the Mexican government until Tuesday to explain the science behind its proposed bans.

The National Corn Growers Association, a US industry group, expressed concern over Monday's decree.

READ MORE: Argentina first nation to approve drought-resistant GMO wheat

"Singling out corn – our number one ag export to Mexico – and hastening an import ban on numerous food-grade uses makes USMCA a dead letter unless it's enforced," said the group's president, Tom Haag.